In a recent city commission meeting, the future of St. Augustine's iconic lion statues took center stage as officials discussed a significant seawall improvement project. The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) plans to enhance the seawall, which necessitates the careful removal of the beloved lion statues located on the west side of the Bridal Alliance.

Under a reimbursement agreement, the city will receive $100,000 to cover the costs associated with the statues' removal, storage, conservation, and eventual replacement. The timeline is clear: the lions must be removed by January 31, 2026, and returned to their rightful place by December 31, 2028, following the completion of the seawall project.

City officials outlined a detailed plan for the statues' relocation. A moving company will be hired to transport the lions to the solid waste building at the end of Riberias Street, where they will be stored securely behind a chain link barrier to prevent any damage. During their time in storage, the statues will undergo professional restoration, ensuring they are in pristine condition when they return.

The city manager emphasized that this procedure mirrors the careful handling that took place during a previous bridge replacement project, where lessons learned have informed the current approach. Notably, the same restoration experts, Enzo Torcoletti and Joe Siegel, who previously worked on the lions, will oversee their rehabilitation once again.

As the meeting concluded, city commissioners expressed their support for the resolution, recognizing the importance of preserving these historical symbols while also improving the city's infrastructure. The careful planning and funding secured for this project reflect St. Augustine's commitment to maintaining its rich heritage while embracing necessary advancements.